Egypt has been unanimously elected to hold the co-presidency of the Mediterranean Animal Health Network (REMESA) for 2026 and will host the organisation’s annual conference in December of that year. The decision was made during the 31st meeting of the REMESA Joint Permanent Committee in Valletta, Malta, attended by veterinary service heads from 15 Mediterranean nations.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation stated that the selection reflects Egypt's prominent role in animal health and regional cooperation. During the meeting, Hamed El-Aqans, Chairperson of the General Organisation for Veterinary Services, affirmed Egypt's commitment to the 'One Health' approach to tackle transboundary diseases, emphasizing its relevance for managing climate-influenced illnesses such as foot-and-mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, and Rift Valley fever. He noted that Egypt has implemented national programs for disease control, including mass immunization campaigns, strengthened epidemiological surveillance, and biosecurity measures at farms and markets.
El-Aqans highlighted the network's role in coordinating regional responses and facilitating the exchange of information and expertise among member states. He added that Egypt's hosting of the 2026 meeting will provide a platform to bolster technical and scientific partnerships and develop joint action plans for health challenges in the Mediterranean basin.
Established in 2009, the Mediterranean Animal Health Network aims to enhance animal health and coordinate surveillance and control of transboundary animal diseases. Its priorities include combating rabies, peste des petits ruminants, and vector-borne diseases, while promoting research cooperation and capacity building for veterinary services.